KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 5  — Women leaders across law, risk, compliance, governance, artificial intelligence and technology are playing an increasingly important role in shaping organisational decision-making and building trust, said Darshvini Malar, Senior Branding & Strategic Partnership Analyst at WomenAtlas and Laurea People’s Signature.

Speaking at the opening of “She Leads. She Defends: Law, Risk & Governance Forum 2026”, Darshvini said the forum was aimed at creating a platform for women professionals to exchange ideas, share experiences and strengthen connections across industries.

She said WomenAtlas was founded on the belief that women should have the platform, confidence and community to lead conversations that influence industries and wider society.

“Law, risk, compliance, governance, AI and technology are no longer separate conversations. They are increasingly interconnected,” she said in her welcome remarks.

Darshvini said professionals leading these functions had a critical role in helping organisations make informed decisions, manage uncertainty and strengthen trust in an increasingly complex business environment.

She stressed that the forum was intended to go beyond a conventional series of presentations and panel discussions.

“We want it to be a space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, new connections and new perspectives,” she said.

The forum brought together speakers, panelists, moderators, partners, guests and professionals from various fields to discuss issues surrounding leadership, governance, risk and emerging technologies.

Darshvini encouraged participants to make full use of the forum as an opportunity to learn from one another, exchange perspectives and establish relationships that could continue beyond the event.

“Whether you are here to learn, to share, to connect, or simply to be inspired, I hope you leave today with something valuable — and perhaps even a new conversation that continues long after this forum ends,” she said.

She also thanked the speakers, panelists, moderators, partners, guests and participants for supporting the event and being part of the WomenAtlas community.

The She Leads. She Defends: Law, Risk & Governance Forum 2026 reflects the growing importance of cross-disciplinary leadership as organisations navigate regulatory changes, technological disruption, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, risk management and evolving expectations around corporate governance.